The 6 Can't-Miss Towns In Minnesota
From glacial lakes to rolling prairies, Minnesota’s beauty is matched only by the character of its small towns. These communities blend history, nature, and allure in unforgettable ways. In Stillwater, stroll the St. Croix Riverfront lined with vintage shops and grand old homes. Pipestone captivates with its sacred Native American quarries and landmarks like Pipestone National Monument. And in Grand Marais, the vibrant Art Festival is a gateway to boundless outdoor adventures on Lake Superior. Discover six can’t-miss towns that showcase the true spirit of the North Star State.
Stillwater
Set along the scenic banks of the St. Croix River, Stillwater blends historic charm with family-friendly fun and natural beauty. Often called the “birthplace of Minnesota,” this town played a key role in the state’s founding and continues to reflect that legacy through its preserved downtown and cultural landmarks. One of the most iconic sights is the Stillwater Lift Bridge, a 1931 structure that spans the river and connects Minnesota to Wisconsin. It remains a picturesque symbol of the region's past.
For nature lovers, the Brown’s Creek Trail delivers a peaceful, 5.9-mile path that winds from the Gateway State Trail in Grant to the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Whether walking, biking, or simply soaking in the scenery, the trail is a must. Families traveling with young children will appreciate Teddy Bear Park, where oversized bears, a train, and a treehouse playground keep little ones happily entertained in a safe and whimsical environment.
Lanesboro
Tucked into the lush bluff country of southeastern Minnesota, Lanesboro is a riverside town where creativity, nature, and small-town warmth come together beautifully. Each June, the town bursts into color and music during Art in the Park, a popular festival hosted by Lanesboro Arts that transforms Sylvan Park into a lively showcase of regional talent.
Running alongside the town, the Root River draws paddlers, anglers, and cyclists who appreciate its calm waters and scenic views. Whether fishing from the banks or launching a canoe, the river invites quiet exploration. A cultural gem in the heart of town, the Commonweal Theatre Company brings professional productions to this small community year-round, ranging from timeless dramas to seasonal favorites. To dive into the area's rich heritage, stop by the Lanesboro Historical Museum, where engaging displays trace the region’s story through artifacts, photos, and local legends—from railroads and churches to Buffalo Bill himself.
Red Wing
Nestled along a scenic stretch of the Mississippi River, Red Wing is a river town that blends natural beauty with timeless craftsmanship and artistic flair. Towering above the skyline is Barn Bluff, a sandstone formation rising 400 feet above the water and providing sweeping views of Lake Pepin to the south. This landmark has long inspired hikers, photographers, and storytellers who trace its trails to the top for some of the best panoramas in southern Minnesota.
Nature lovers should head to Colvill Park, a riverside retreat known for its bald eagle sightings in winter and vibrant waterfowl migrations in spring and fall. The park also hosts whitetail deer, mink, and playful gray squirrels in its wooded spaces. In the heart of town, the historic Sheldon Theatre shines with a packed calendar of live performances, films, and lectures. Housed in a restored turn-of-the-century building, this venue brings a cultural heartbeat to Red Wing with shows that run throughout the year. Just a few blocks away, the Pottery Museum of Red Wing celebrates the town’s deep legacy in American ceramics. Here, collections of stoneware, dinnerware, and handcrafted pieces chronicle over a century of artistry that helped put Red Wing on the map.
Pipestone
Set amidst the sweeping prairies of southwestern Minnesota, Pipestone is a small town with deep cultural roots and striking natural features. At the heart of its identity is the Pipestone National Monument, where Native American tribes have quarried the sacred red stone for generations to carve ceremonial pipes. A walk through this serene site reveals a profound connection to the land and enduring traditions. Winding through the monument is the Circle Trail, a paved path that guides visitors past several key points, including ancient quarry pits and interpretive markers. One highlight along the way is Winnewissa Falls, a graceful cascade whose name translates from the Sioux language as "jealous maiden." This peaceful spot is a favorite for nature photography and quiet reflection.
Downtown, the Pipestone Historic District is a testament to the town’s architectural heritage. Buildings crafted from the same red stone as the sacred quarries line the streets, creating a cohesive and uniquely Minnesotan streetscape.
Sandstone
This riverside community of under 3,000 residents draws nature lovers, music fans, and adventure seekers year-round. Each December, locals and visitors welcome the season at the Sandstone Ice Festival, a celebration of cold-weather thrills including guided climbs, snowshoe treks, and winter camping workshops.
Furthermore, Robinson Quarry Park in town mixes history and outdoor recreation in a setting where sandstone cliffs meet the flowing Kettle River. Once a bustling quarry, the park now welcomes climbers, paddlers, and picnickers and even hosts ice climbing during the winter months. Just a little far, Banning State Park beckons with dramatic trails winding through birch and pine forests. Hikers will pass by rushing rapids and quiet stretches of wilderness, making it a perfect spot to unplug and explore. For those who love live performance, the Midwest Country Music Theater brings classic country to the center stage inside the lovingly restored 1924 Vogue Theater.
Grand Marais
Cradled between the pine-covered Sawtooth Mountains and the vast expanse of Lake Superior, Grand Marais is one of Minnesota’s most picturesque small towns. With cool summers and snowy winters shaped by the lake’s mood, the town thrives as a year-round destination for those who seek both adventure and tranquility. Local traditions shine each season, especially during the Fisherman’s Picnic in August and the Grand Marais Arts Festival in early July—two beloved gatherings that fill the waterfront with music, food, and creativity.
For unforgettable views and a quiet escape, Artist’s Point is a scenic gem. Whether sketching, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the sound of waves rolling over the rocks, this spot invites reflection and awe. A short walk from there, the Grand Marais Lighthouse promises a peaceful adventure, especially when the waters are calm enough to walk the rocky path out to the beacon. Just a few miles inland, hikers can find wonder in Judge C.R. Magney State Park, home to the mysterious Devil’s Kettle, where half of the Brule River vanishes into a deep, unexplained chasm.
From riverside views to windswept cliffs, these six Minnesota towns show that the state’s beauty runs deeper than its famed lakes. Whether you are exploring Stillwater’s Lift Bridge, paddling along Lanesboro’s quiet river bends, or admiring Grand Marais’s dramatic shoreline, each destination brings its own story and appeal. Nature, heritage, the arts, and warm-hearted communities come together in places like Red Wing, Pipestone, and Sandstone—each one a reminder that Minnesota’s most unforgettable experiences often can’t be missed.
